Paymentology, the leading global issuer processor, today announces a continuation of its partnership with Zambian fintech, Union54, a company dedicated to providing secure messaging and instant payment systems.
Building on the recent launch of Union54’s ChitChat—a messaging app with an integrated payment wallet—this collaboration introduces a USD virtual Mastercard debit card to the platform.
Leveraging over two decades of expertise, Paymentology provides its next-generation payment platform to support Union54’s expansion of ChitChat in Zambia and other African markets during this critical growth phase.
Founded in 2021 by entrepreneurs Perseus Mlambo and Alessandra Martini, Union54 has quickly gained prominence in Africa's fintech sector. Its flagship product, ChitChat, enables users to communicate, network, transfer money between wallets, convert USD to local currencies, and send in-app funds to other ChitChat users. With the help of Paymentology’s cloud-first, API-driven technology, users can now conduct both in-person and online transactions using their ChitChat virtual Mastercard debit card.
This partnership comes at a time of rapid growth in Zambia’s digital payments sector. With 16.4 million mobile connections representing 78.7% of the population, and a projected market growth for digital payments of 16.12% from 2023 to 2027, reaching a size of US$8,441.00 million, Zambia is primed for innovation in financial services. By integrating communication and secure financial transactions on one platform, Union54’s ChitChat has the potential to drive significant economic growth, foster entrepreneurship, and enhance financial inclusion throughout Africa.
Perseus Mlambo, CEO of Union54, commented: “The internet has transformative potential for both individuals and governments. Our goal is to create secure and efficient spaces for communication and transactions. Partnering with Paymentology provides us with the reliability, security, and scalability needed to elevate our offerings. This collaboration will empower our customers with the advanced tools necessary for seamless communication and financial transactions.”
Kirsten Wortmann, Africa Regional Director at Paymentology, commented: “We are thrilled to expand our collaboration with Union54, an organisation that is at the forefront of innovation in Africa and committed to making a tangible difference in people’s lives. Supporting the ChitChat app at this critical juncture in its growth is a testament to our shared vision of empowering users with safe and efficient payment solutions. We look forward to continuing our support and delivering next-generation solutions to serve the African market.”
This collaboration between the two key players aims to champion an inclusive digital economy, reinforcing their shared commitment to making transactions safe and accessible for everyone.